The lyrics of "Every Mother's Son" by Pretenders reflect a sense of struggle and identity. The narrator describes feeling born ready to fight, yet longing for something more peaceful, like the swans flying to the sun. Throughout the song, they grapple with conflicting desires to be both strong and gentle, influenced by familial expectations and personal experiences.

Meaning of "Every Mother's Son" by Pretenders

"Every Mother's Son" delves into the complexities of identity and the impact of upbringing and societal norms on individual development. The narrator expresses a dichotomy between their innate instincts for aggression and their aspirations for peace and beauty, symbolized by the desire to be like the graceful swans. The references to being taught to defend but not to kill highlight the conflicting messages received in childhood. The mention of being a displaced person and raising daughters in a pornographic town speaks to a sense of disillusionment with society and a struggle to find one's place within it. Ultimately, the song portrays a search for meaning and a yearning for a new beginning, despite the challenges faced.